Atletico Madrid Agrees €40M Deal for Thiago Almada

Atletico Madrid has reached an agreement to sign Argentine midfielder Thiago Almada, with the club set to pay around €40 million for approximately 50% of his economic rights initially, with further payments expected. The 24-year-old, who spent the latter half of the 2024-25 season on loan at Olympique Lyon and previously played for Botafogo, is seen as a key creative signing to bolster Atletico's attack under manager Diego Simeone. Almada brings international experience with 10 caps and four goals for Argentina and has a versatile playing style that fits Simeone's tactical approach. His transfer follows a notable career path including a record MLS move to Botafogo and winning the World Cup while playing in MLS, marking him as one of the league's top exports. Atletico views Almada as a strong financial and sporting investment, expected to fill the gap left by Angel Correa, and the club is also interested in further strengthening the squad with potential signings like Cristian Romero. The deal is subject to Almada passing a medical and signing a contract, with negotiations reportedly progressing swiftly amid high valuation and interest from other clubs.